Well-being tips to ward off the winter woes

DON’T let the low temperatures take a toll on your health.

Being proactive about your health will help you ward off illness and get you in tip-top shape.

Start supercharging your wellness this winter with these four tips from Cancer Council Queensland CEO Chris McMillan.

1. Stay hydrated. Unlike in summer when a sweat session can leave us gasping for a cold drink, dehydration is much less noticeable in colder temperatures. Even mild dehydration can lead to alterations in mood, headaches, fatigue and difficulty concentrating. If cold water is unappealing when the mercury dips, try boiled water with a slice of lemon.

2. Eat well. Fill your plate with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables to give your body adequate nutrition and increase energy levels. You can use a slow cooker to make easy hot meals like chilli or overnight oatmeal, or turn your green salads into green soups. Green soups are a warmer way to enjoy the same antioxidants and vitamins. Even fruit can make a comforting snack when poached or roasted – simply mix it with warming spices such as cinnamon, ginger and vanilla bean.

3. Keep exercising. Don’t let the low temperatures and lack of light slow you down. If you can’t bear to head outdoors, you can still increase your fitness at home – do body weight exercises using your stairs, a chair or the floor. 4. Stress less and stay connected. Socialising helps strengthen your immune system by keeping you active and reducing your stress levels, so avoid the temptation to stay on the couch. Enjoy dinner with friends, wrap up warm and go for a walk in the park with family, or plan a date with your partner – simply find something you enjoy.

With one-third of all cancers preventable through lifestyle changes, it’s important to lower your risk of cancer this winter by enjoying a healthy diet, being physically active every day and maintaining a healthy body weight.